Technology

Technology in education has become increasingly important in recent years. Children today are exposed to technology in ways students were not just as recent as the last decade. First Presbyterian Day School believes in a balanced approach to technology. We view technology as a tool to learning and as an important resource in helping students collaborate and create. However, we also believe that holding a book in your hands and turning the pages is essential to the learning process.First through fourth grades each have several iPads for daily use in addition to grade-level assigned iPad carts shared for weekly use.Each fifth and sixth grade student is assigned a Google Chromebook for daily use at school only. Students have access to online textbooks, study aids, research, and online testing in various subjects.

In the fall of 2015, our traditional computer lab was renovated and converted to an Idea Lab. The concept of the Idea Lab is to engage students in project-based learning. Students are also introduced to keyboarding beginning in first grade as well as coding and robotics. Carol Brister, technology instructor, uses classroom time to facilitate cooperative learning and thinking. Students work together to create projects that correlate with classroom curriculum. The room features white board walls and table tops, two high-definition televisions with Apple TV, custom-built cabinetry, modular furniture, and vivid colors to inspire the imagination.

In Science, students use 3D printing to develop engineering skills to solve various scientific problems. Students also have access to a laptop cart for use in scientific research and creating presentations.